Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a condition that occurs when a diverticulum becomes infected or inflamed. A diverticulum is a pouch-like opening that sometimes occurs in tubular organs, most often in the colon or other area of the bowel wall. Many people have diverticulums in their organs. These pouches are considered “weak spots” in the organs, but are generally harmless—unless they become infected or inflamed.

Medical research has yet to determine the exact cause of diverticulutis, but the most widely accepted theory is that the condition is caused by bacteria or stool getting caught in the diverticulum. Many doctors suspect that a low-fiber diet puts a person at greater risk for diverticulitis, as low-fiber diets tend to lead to constipation (difficulty passing a stool). As the stool hardens and builds up in the colon, it builds pressure on the colon walls, heightening the risk both for stool buildup within existing diverticula, and for the creation of more diverticula. This condition is most common in industrialized, Western nations where low-fiber diets are common.

Diverticulitis can lead to bleeding, infections, perforations, tears, or blockages in the infected region. If left untreated, diverticulitis can lead to more serious disease. A CT abdomen scan can help identify diverticulitis early on. Medication and a high-fiber diet are often enough to treat diverticulitis in its earliest stages.